Why did you choose beauty? My parents thought it would be a great career for me, as I wasn't interested in college. I love the industry, the people in it and the amazing creativity that is involved.

Milestones: Building two great salons and the amazing teams that run them; being a finalist for NAHA in 2006; becoming an art director for KMS California and working with the group of phenomenally talented people to shoot the cover of the September 2011 cover of MODERN SALON.

Big break: Came from working with Sam Brocato early in my career

Career advice you’ve received: From my husband: Success happens when preparation meets opportunity, so always be ready. Show up with all you equipment, you never know what you're going to need.

Career advice you’ve given: Same as above, it works for everyone.

Your mentors: Sam Brocato led the way for me and our business, and Vivienne Mackinder opened my eyes to creativity

. You mentor: Our staff in our apprentice program

Are there benefits to being a woman in beauty? With shows like Tabatha’s Salon Takeover, we’re starting to see women take the lead in the industry and it's only getting better.

Are there challenges to being a woman in beauty? Over the past 40 years, the industry has been predominantly led by men. Today, you're seeing a strong, talented group of women who are phenomenal in their goals, drive and ability, and they are making a difference.

Risk and reward: Entering NAHA is a big risk. You put your ability, creativity and ego on the line. And if you’re not nominated, it's hard. I learned not to give up, to keep doing it. Eventually it will pay off. The journey is part of the learning process.

What does “work/life” balance mean to you? It means being happy in both places. I achieve it by scheduling it.

To follow in your footsteps, a woman would have to: Work really hard, make sacrifices, do the little things, always show up, be considerate of others and practice.

Famous woman you would like to style: I've always wanted to do Madonna’s hair.

Next change to my personal style: Possibly going blonde again.

Reading: Storm of Swords, book three of the Game of Thrones series by George RR Martin. And Master your Metabolism by Jillian Michaels.

Last call to enter Beacon 2020, a game-changing program designed to inspire upcoming young professionals with an experience that’s fun, uplifting and creative that kickstarts their beauty careers by learning from the best in the industry.

Oribe Hair Care expands its Serene Scalp collection with the introduction of the new Serene Scalp Thickening Treatment Spray and Serene Scalp Exfoliating Scrub. The products work to reveal an optimal environment for healthy hair by energizing, hydrating, and balancing the scalp.